Tackling the Talent Shortage

Friday, January 04, 2019

One of OEDC's Strategic Priorities continues to be working on methods to increase the skills and talents of its laborshed. This is a necessary function as we compete for more workers to fill the high-demand jobs of a manufacturing-based economy.

First, some facts-
1) manufacturers right now are facing a brutal shortage of workers that threatens to impede continued growth (which in many cases offer new communities, such as Ottumwa, to compete for new business)
2) According to some studies, its likely that over the next 10 years, manufacturers will need to add 4.6 million manufacturing jobs (which with proper training and skills, could include many of the nearly 115,000 employed workers in the Southeast Iowa laborshed)

Here's how OEDC is supporting that Strategic Priority-
A team of economic development professionals in Appanoose, Davis, Jefferson, Mahaska, and Monroe Counties, plus utilities and educational partners like Indian Hills Community College, is seeking responses from a short list of experts in the field of implementing work plans that can help upskill current workers to meet the demands of open jobs available in the region. A second goal would be to develop a marketing plan to attract workers to this area.

The process began with the distribution of a Request for Proposals (RFP) on December 13, 2018. Submissions are due February 1, and selection should be made by February 28, 2019. Anticipated start date is April 29, 2019.

Questions can be directed to Ashley Moyer, IHCC at ashley.moyer@indianhills.edu or Sharon Stroh, OEDC at sstroh@ottumwaiowa.com